Michigan Senate Approves Bill Banning Mandatory Ergonomics Rules

The Michigan Senate has approved a bill that would prevent administrative rules mandating workplace ergonomics rules.

The bill from Republican Sen. Rick Jones of Grand Ledge was approved by a 25-12 vote last Thursday and now heads to the House. Republicans control both chambers.

Ergonomics aims to limit injuries caused by heavy lifting, repetitive motion and awkward work positions. Mandatory ergonomics rules had been worked on in then-Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s administration but weren’t enacted.

Republican Gov. Rick Snyder has called for stopping what he called ‘overreaching” ergonomics regulations.

Businesses say mandatory regulations may prove too costly.

The legislation would allow voluntary guidelines as long as they’re not tougher than federal guidelines.

Opponents say they worry the bill could undermine the authority of the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration.